Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa Government has taken serious note of growing concerns regarding fraudulent activities by certain recruitment agencies operating in the state, especially those involved in facilitating overseas employment. In response to a Calling Attention motion moved by MLA Sankalp Amonkar, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant detailed steps taken by the administration to regulate and monitor these agencies.
Between 2022 and June 30, 2025, Goa Police registered 15 criminal cases under the Indian Penal Code and Emigration Act, 1963, against unregistered recruitment agencies and agents. So far, 15 individuals have been arrested. While several cases are under investigation, a few are currently pending trial.
The Chief Minister informed the House that the Protector of Emigrants (POE) for Goa functions under the Ministry of External Affairs and is responsible for granting emigration clearance and handling grievances related to overseas employment.
To curb such illegal practices, the government has initiated a multi-pronged strategy. These include publicizing arrests through the media, conducting awareness drives in schools and local communities, and holding regular Police-Public meetings to sensitize citizens. The police have also appealed to the public to use only MCA-listed recruitment agencies.
Additionally, coordination with the POE has been strengthened. A monthly report of recruitment fraud cases is sent to the Superintendent of Police, Special Branch, designated as the “Focal Point” for liaising with the Ministry of External Affairs. During investigations, recruitment agencies are verified, and violations are addressed according to the law.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to protecting citizens from falling prey to fraudulent overseas job offers and emphasized the importance of public awareness in tackling the issue.
